A Catholic Examination of Conscience
Senior, Married Father with Children Under 18
In preparing for confession, please read through the examination questions and explanations thoughtfully, reflecting on each point and honestly identifying where you've fallen short of God's call in your life. You may click and remove any irrelevant ones as you proceed. Take mental note of any serious sins that require confession, focusing on being thorough but not scrupulous, then use these insights to make a complete and sincere confession to your priest.
Updated: December 3, 2024
Read Time: 16 minutes
Disobedience
Was I disobedient to my parents in their instructions, guidance, and authority?
As per the fourth commandment, it's a child's duty to respond to parental love, wisdom, and respect with obedience.
Have I disobeyed my parents or guardians in anything?
As per the fourth commandment, it's a child's duty to respond to parental love, wisdom, and respect with obedience.
Did I reject the unity of the Church in my thoughts when frustrated with the imperfections of its members, perhaps viewing their shortcomings as a reflection on the institution itself?
Rejecting Church unity due to frustration with individuals is sinful because it confuses the Church's divine nature and eternal truths with the human imperfections of its members, while also violating Christ's prayer "that they may all be one."
Did I reject the unity of the Church in my thoughts when frustrated with others within the community?
Rejecting Church unity due to frustration with individuals is sinful because it confuses the Church's divine nature and eternal truths with the human imperfections of its members, while also violating Christ's prayer "that they may all be one."
Did I, in my frustration with those around me, reject the unity that exists within the Church when we are one body in Christ?
Rejecting Church unity due to frustration with individuals is sinful because it confuses the Church's divine nature and eternal truths with the human imperfections of its members, while also violating Christ's prayer "that they may all be one."
Did you intentionally fail to observe the rules for fasting on obligatory days, such as Ash Wednesday?
This is considered sinful because deliberately disregarding prescribed days of fasting represents disobedience to Church authority and fails to honor our spiritual obligation to practice self-denial and penance during sacred times.
Did you use mocking words against the Church?
Mocking the church shows contempt for Christ's established institution on earth, disrespects the Body of Christ, and undermines the Church's divine authority as guided by the Holy Spirit.
Did you speak disrespectfully about the Church?
Mocking the church shows contempt for Christ's established institution on earth, disrespects the Body of Christ, and undermines the Church's divine authority as guided by the Holy Spirit.
Did I speak against or disparage the Church, its teachings, or its members?
Mocking the church shows contempt for Christ's established institution on earth, disrespects the Body of Christ, and undermines the Church's divine authority as guided by the Holy Spirit.
Have I, through my actions and attitudes, dishonored my mother?
Respecting parental authority helps maintain proper order in families and society, and that parents deserve honor for their role in giving life, nurturing, and forming their children in faith and virtue.
Have I through my actions and attitudes, brought dishonor to my mother and father?
Respecting parental authority helps maintain proper order in families and society, and that parents deserve honor for their role in giving life, nurturing, and forming their children in faith and virtue.
Have I disobeyed my mother and father through my actions and attitudes?
Respecting parental authority helps maintain proper order in families and society, and that parents deserve honor for their role in giving life, nurturing, and forming their children in faith and virtue.
Condoning
Did I permit other Catholics to disregard Sacraments or Mass?
One of the spiritual works of mercy is to admonish the sinner and to correct them out of love and charity instead of condoning sin.
Did I ever discourage other Catholics from participating in sacraments or attending Mass through my words?
One of the spiritual works of mercy is to admonish the sinner and to correct them out of love and charity instead of condoning sin.
Did I, through my words or actions, lead fellow Catholics to believe it is acceptable for them to abstain from participating in Sacraments or attending Mass?
One of the spiritual works of mercy is to admonish the sinner and to correct them out of love and charity instead of condoning sin.
Did I fail to correct my child's misconception to avoid having an uncomfortable conversation?
Permitting a child to continue in error by avoiding difficult conversations is sinful because it neglects our God-given parental duty to guide and form our children's moral and spiritual development, placing our own comfort above their eternal wellbeing.
Did I fail to speak up for my child when they were in error, thereby condoning their mistakes?
Permitting a child to continue in error by avoiding difficult conversations is sinful because it neglects our God-given parental duty to guide and form our children's moral and spiritual development, placing our own comfort above their eternal wellbeing.
Did you condone a funeral where human remains were not properly buried?
Failing to advocate for proper burial of human remains is considered sinful as the Church teaches that the body is sacred and deserves reverent burial, with scattering or keeping remains being contrary to the dignity of the human body and resurrection belief.
Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences by allowing them to engage in activities that compromise their values or faith?
Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.
Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences through their online activities or associations?
Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.
Did I ever use my words to condone another Catholic to marry outside the Church?
Marriage is a sacrament within the Catholic faith and thus giving approval and not admonishing the action gives scandal by condoning.
Did I give my approval to another Catholic by speaking positively about their decision to marry outside of our Church?
Marriage is a sacrament within the Catholic faith and thus giving approval and not admonishing the action gives scandal by condoning.
Did you condone or justify euthanasia, thereby showing disregard for human life, in your conversations or interactions?
It's sinful to condone sinful behavior and fail to admonish such sinful actions, especially a grave act that would take a life.
Autonomy
Did I forgo a valid Catholic marriage through my actions, words, or decisions that have led to separating from my lawful spouse?
For Catholics, marriage is sacramental and needs to occur in the Church or receive a dispensation if either people are not Catholic.
Have I taken for granted God's providence in my life, forgetting to acknowledge Him as the ultimate source of my blessings?
Believing that one's blessings are due to one's own self-sufficiency and determination is a sin as it is a rejection of recognizing Divine Providence as being ultimately responsible.
Did I attribute my accomplishments and successes in life solely to my own abilities, forgetting to acknowledge God's providence as their source?
Believing that one's blessings are due to one's own self-sufficiency and determination is a sin as it is a rejection of recognizing Divine Providence as being ultimately responsible.
Did I attribute my good fortune in retirement, such as enjoying outdoor activities like gardening or fishing, to my own determination rather than God's providence?
Believing that one's blessings are due to one's own self-sufficiency and determination is a sin as it is a rejection of recognizing Divine Providence as being ultimately responsible.
Did I harbor suspicions about God's existence in my mind?
Deliberately entertaining doubts about God's existence is a sin against faith because it questions the most fundamental truth of our faith and shows a lack of trust in God's clear self-revelation through creation, scripture, and the Church's teachings.
Have I relied solely on my own abilities and failed to recognize my complete dependence on God's grace, especially in moments of stress or uncertainty?
Pride is self-reliance repeats Lucifer's original sin of wanting independence from God and fails to acknowledge our complete dependence on divine grace.
Did I trust solely in my own abilities and failed to recognize my complete dependence on God's grace, even when facing new challenges or uncertain situations?
Pride is self-reliance repeats Lucifer's original sin of wanting independence from God and fails to acknowledge our complete dependence on divine grace.
Did I put my faith in my own abilities rather than relying solely on God's grace, even in areas of my life where I have experience and confidence?
Pride is self-reliance repeats Lucifer's original sin of wanting independence from God and fails to acknowledge our complete dependence on divine grace.
Uncharity
Do I turn away from those who are homeless?
Per the corporal works of mercy, we are to love our neighbors by feeding the hungry and sheltering the homeless and respecting their dignity especially in times of hardship.
Do I look down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other trait that is different from my own?
This sin dehumanizes people on the margins when we are called to love each other as a child of God as Jesus loved us.
Do I look down upon others based on their occupation, nationality, or other characteristics?
This sin dehumanizes people on the margins when we are called to love each other as a child of God as Jesus loved us.
Do I look down upon others, especially those who may be struggling or from a different background, based on their job, nationality, or other trait?
This sin dehumanizes people on the margins when we are called to love each other as a child of God as Jesus loved us.
Did your interests lead you to neglect the needs of those who are vulnerable, such as children or those in need?
This is considered sinful because excessive self-focus and selfishness violates Christ's command to love our neighbors as ourselves and contradicts the Christian call to practice charity, compassion, and self-sacrifice for others.
Did I put my own interests above those of my family, friends, and community?
This is considered sinful because excessive self-focus and selfishness violates Christ's command to love our neighbors as ourselves and contradicts the Christian call to practice charity, compassion, and self-sacrifice for others.
Did you allow your personal interests to take precedence over the needs and well-being of those around you?
This is considered sinful because excessive self-focus and selfishness violates Christ's command to love our neighbors as ourselves and contradicts the Christian call to practice charity, compassion, and self-sacrifice for others.
Do I disrespect others through my thoughts, words, and actions by failing to treat them with the love and respect that comes from knowing they are children of God?
Treating others with disrespect denies their inherent dignity as beings created in God's image and violates Christ's command to love one another as He has loved us.
Do I disrespect others? In particular, have I treated others who may be different from me or hold opposing views with disrespect because of a lack of understanding or patience?
Treating others with disrespect denies their inherent dignity as beings created in God's image and violates Christ's command to love one another as He has loved us.
Did I lose my patience with those around me, such as family members, friends, or fellow community members?
Losing patience with others fails to reflect God's infinite patience with us and violates Christ's command to love our neighbor, instead allowing anger and frustration to override charity and kindness.
Have I lost my patience with those closest to me, particularly within my own family?
Losing patience with others fails to reflect God's infinite patience with us and violates Christ's command to love our neighbor, instead allowing anger and frustration to override charity and kindness.
Did I lose my patience with fellow parishioners when interacting with them in person?
Losing patience with others fails to reflect God's infinite patience with us and violates Christ's command to love our neighbor, instead allowing anger and frustration to override charity and kindness.
Did I permit someone to be treated unfairly? This sin violates the principles of justice, charity, and our moral obligation to defend human dignity and protect others from harm when we have the ability to intervene.
This sin violates the principles of justice, charity, and our moral obligation to defend human dignity and protect our neighbors from harm when we have the ability to intervene.
Did I permit someone to be treated unfairly? Did you permit someone else to be treated unfairly? Is there a more suitable rephrasing? Did I give anyone permission for others to suffer unjust treatment?
This sin violates the principles of justice, charity, and our moral obligation to defend human dignity and protect our neighbors from harm when we have the ability to intervene.
Did you permit someone to be treated unfairly? This sin violates the principles of justice, charity, and our moral obligation to defend human dignity and protect our neighbors from harm when we have the ability to intervene.
This sin violates the principles of justice, charity, and our moral obligation to defend human dignity and protect our neighbors from harm when we have the ability to intervene.
Have I neglected to assist those who genuinely needed my assistance?
Refusing to help those in need violates Jesus's direct command to love our neighbor and practice the works of mercy, as illustrated in the parable of the Good Samaritan.
Have I withheld my assistance from others when they needed it?
Refusing to help those in need violates Jesus's direct command to love our neighbor and practice the works of mercy, as illustrated in the parable of the Good Samaritan.
Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in need, particularly to family members who are struggling or vulnerable?
Failing to help those in need violates Christ's direct command to love our neighbor and care for the poor, effectively refusing to recognize Jesus Himself in the suffering of others.
Have I shown practical assistance to those in need by contributing my time, talents, and resources to help the less fortunate in our community?
Failing to help those in need violates Christ's direct command to love our neighbor and care for the poor, effectively refusing to recognize Jesus Himself in the suffering of others.
Lukewarmness
Am I uninterested in growing deeper in my spiritual life, preferring comfort and familiarity over a more transformative relationship with God?
Lukewarmness in spiritual growth is sinful because one essentially chooses comfort and mediocrity over the transformative love God offers, which Jesus specifically warned against in Revelation 3:16.
Have I been unmotivated or halfhearted in my commitment to loving and serving God while giving priority to worldly pursuits, such as enjoying outdoor activities, participating in hobbies, or spending time with family and friends?
We tend to sin by failing in effort to know and love God while exerting other efforts on worldly things.
Merciless
Have I used hurtful words to condemn others?
Condemning others is a sin of mercilessness because it places oneself in God's role as judge and denies others the same mercy and forgiveness that God extends to all of us.
Have I ever spoken words that condemn others?
Condemning others is a sin of mercilessness because it places oneself in God's role as judge and denies others the same mercy and forgiveness that God extends to all of us.
Did I remain silent about Church teachings to avoid discomfort from others, especially in situations where it would have been difficult or unpleasant for me to speak up?
While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.
Callousness
Did I fail to provide aid to someone who was suffering when I had the means to do so?
As part of the corporal works of mercy, we're called to be merciful and compassionate to those in distress.
Did you fail to provide essential financial assistance when someone in your community was suffering from economic hardship, despite having the means to do so?
As part of the corporal works of mercy, we're called to be merciful and compassionate to those in distress.
Did I turn away from those who were in need of my assistance, perhaps even showing little concern for their plight?
Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.
Did I turn away from someone who was ill, disregarding their need for my care and compassion?
This is sinful because it violates Jesus's direct command to care for the sick (Matthew 25:36) and fails to fulfill our fundamental Christian duty to show compassion and mercy to those who are suffering.
Did I turn away from someone who was suffering or in need?
This is sinful because it violates Jesus's direct command to care for the sick (Matthew 25:36) and fails to fulfill our fundamental Christian duty to show compassion and mercy to those who are suffering.
Sloth
Did I show indifference to those who were ill and needed my help?
Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.
Did I deliberately disregard prescribed days of prayer and penance, such as Ash Wednesday, by failing to observe them?
This is considered sinful because deliberately disregarding prescribed days of fasting represents disobedience to Church authority and fails to honor our spiritual obligation to practice self-denial and penance during sacred times.
Have I neglected to share the teachings of Christ with my child?
Parents have the duty to be the first teachers of faith to their children, as promised in their child's baptism and outlined in Church teaching as the fundamental responsibility of Christian parenthood.
Have I failed to establish a consistent spiritual practice that includes teaching my child about Christ in our daily routine?
Parents have the duty to be the first teachers of faith to their children, as promised in their child's baptism and outlined in Church teaching as the fundamental responsibility of Christian parenthood.
Have I failed to establish my child's faith through open and regular discussions about God's love and plan, despite their growing interest in these topics?
Parents have the duty to be the first teachers of faith to their children, as promised in their child's baptism and outlined in Church teaching as the fundamental responsibility of Christian parenthood.
In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of my family's genuine needs and wellbeing, especially when it comes to activities and hobbies that take me away from them?
Neglecting family duties is considered sinful because it violates both divine law and natural law, where God entrusts us with specific responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for our family members as part of our fundamental Christian vocation.
Have I prioritized my own desires and interests over the genuine needs and well-being of my family?
Neglecting family duties is considered sinful because it violates both divine law and natural law, where God entrusts us with specific responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for our family members as part of our fundamental Christian vocation.
In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of my family's genuine needs and wellbeing by neglecting time for them, prioritizing my hobbies or personal projects over our shared responsibilities?
Neglecting family duties is considered sinful because it violates both divine law and natural law, where God entrusts us with specific responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for our family members as part of our fundamental Christian vocation.
Did I fail to provide for my child's religious education, leading them astray from the path of faith?
Parents have a primary and sacred duty to pass on the faith to their children, as they are considered their children's first and most important religious teachers who are directly responsible for their spiritual formation and eternal salvation.
Did you neglect to pray daily?
This is a sin because daily prayer is our essential lifeline of communication with God - deliberately neglecting it demonstrates ingratitude to our Creator, breaks our fundamental relationship with Him, and violates the First Commandment's call to properly worship God
Did you neglect to pray daily, potentially leading to spiritual numbness and a weakened relationship with God?
This is a sin because daily prayer is our essential lifeline of communication with God - deliberately neglecting it demonstrates ingratitude to our Creator, breaks our fundamental relationship with Him, and violates the First Commandment's call to properly worship God
Did you deprioritize and skip Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, allowing worldly priorities to take precedence over your highest obligation to worship God?
deliberately choosing to skip Mass for non-serious reasons shows disobedience to Church authority, ingratitude for Christ's sacrifice, and places worldly priorities above our highest obligation to worship God.
Did you intentionally deprioritize, skip, or deliberately choose to absent yourself from attending Mass on Sundays or Holy Days of Obligation for non-serious reasons, showing ingratitude for Christ's sacrifice and placing worldly priorities above your highest obligation to worship God?
deliberately choosing to skip Mass for non-serious reasons shows disobedience to Church authority, ingratitude for Christ's sacrifice, and places worldly priorities above our highest obligation to worship God.
Vainglory
Did I seek to be seen as generous when giving alms?
Seeking praise for charitable giving is sinful because it transforms an act meant to glorify God and help others into an exercise of pride and self-glorification.
Did I give alms in order to be seen by others?
Seeking praise for charitable giving is sinful because it transforms an act meant to glorify God and help others into an exercise of pride and self-glorification.
Did I seek personal aggrandizement through charitable giving by expecting praise from others for my generosity?
Seeking praise for charitable giving is sinful because it transforms an act meant to glorify God and help others into an exercise of pride and self-glorification.
Am I more focused on defending my good name and gaining respect from others in community events, church gatherings, or neighborhood potluck dinners than pleasing God?
Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.
Am I more focused on gaining the respect and admiration of my fellow Christians than pleasing God in my thoughts, words, and actions?
Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.
Am I more focused on defending my reputation within social circles than pleasing God, especially when seeking recognition for my good deeds or accomplishments?
Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.
Theft
Did you intentionally fail to pay debts owed to others?
Intentionally failing to pay debts is sinful because it violates both the seventh commandment against theft and the principle of justice that requires honoring our commitments to others.
Did you intentionally fail to pay debts owed to others?
Intentionally failing to pay debts is sinful because it violates both the seventh commandment against theft and the principle of justice that requires honoring our commitments to others.
Did I knowingly assist others in stealing?
While not stealing yourself, this sin still participates in breaking the seventh commandment and shows disregard for others' rightful property and dignity.
Did you intentionally enable others to steal?
While not stealing yourself, this sin still participates in breaking the seventh commandment and shows disregard for others' rightful property and dignity.
Have I stolen anything that doesn't belong to me, regardless of its value?
Theft disrespects the human dignity and property rights of others, breaks trust within communities, and demonstrates both greed and a lack of trust in God's providence.
Did I fail to pay others a fair price or wage?
Failing to pay a fair wage or price is a sin because it violates both the seventh commandment against stealing and the principle of social justice.
Did you deliberately pay less than a fair wage or price to others?
Failing to pay a fair wage or price is a sin because it violates both the seventh commandment against stealing and the principle of social justice.
Did I intentionally shortchange others by failing to pay them a fair price or wage?
Failing to pay a fair wage or price is a sin because it violates both the seventh commandment against stealing and the principle of social justice.
False Witness
Did I misrepresent myself to gain an advantage?
This is considered sinful because deliberately deceiving others for personal gain violates the eighth commandment against bearing false witness and breaks trust in human relationships while failing to reflect Christian virtues of honesty and integrity.
Have I misrepresented myself to others for personal gain?
This is considered sinful because deliberately deceiving others for personal gain violates the eighth commandment against bearing false witness and breaks trust in human relationships while failing to reflect Christian virtues of honesty and integrity.
Did I use my words to deceive others in order to gain an advantage?
This is considered sinful because deliberately deceiving others for personal gain violates the eighth commandment against bearing false witness and breaks trust in human relationships while failing to reflect Christian virtues of honesty and integrity.
Did I deceive others through my words or actions?
Deceiving others is a form of bearing false witness, damages trust between people, and breaks down human relationships that should reflect God's truth and love.
Did I deceive others by misrepresenting my personal finances or experiences in social interactions?
Deceiving others is a form of bearing false witness, damages trust between people, and breaks down human relationships that should reflect God's truth and love.
Did I lead others to believe something that was not true?
Deceiving others is a form of bearing false witness, damages trust between people, and breaks down human relationships that should reflect God's truth and love.
Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in community gatherings, social events, or online interactions?
Bearing false witness puts one's desires over truth, justice, and love of God.
Have I intentionally misrepresented the truth about others through my words in social situations, online interactions, or everyday conversations?
Bearing false witness puts one's desires over truth, justice, and love of God.
Have I misrepresented or exaggerated the truth about my experiences, skills, or accomplishments in conversations with others?
Bearing false witness puts one's desires over truth, justice, and love of God.
Resent
Did I become sterilized?
This is considered sinful because deliberately altering one's fertility represents an act of defiance against God and implies we know better than divine wisdom, placing our desires for control above trust in God's plan for our lives.
Did I become sterilized, thus deliberately altering my fertility and acting against God's plan for my life?
This is considered sinful because deliberately altering one's fertility represents an act of defiance against God and implies we know better than divine wisdom, placing our desires for control above trust in God's plan for our lives.
Did I harbor any resentment towards those who have wronged me, especially in regards to my relationships with family, friends, or community members?
Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
Did I harbor any resentment towards those who have wronged me in my personal relationships, especially within my family or close social network?
Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
Have I harbored any resentment towards those who have wronged me in my community, workplace, or home life?
Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
Have I deliberately rejected God's faith for any length of time?
This sin represents a deliberate rejection of God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism, breaking the promise to remain faithful to Christ and His Church.
Have you, at any time in your life, deliberately abandoned the Catholic faith for an extended period?
This sin represents a deliberate rejection of God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism, breaking the promise to remain faithful to Christ and His Church.
Did you harbor thoughts against your Catholic faith for any length of time?
This sin represents a deliberate rejection of God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism, breaking the promise to remain faithful to Christ and His Church.
Effeminacy
Do you fear to speak the name of Jesus in front of others, especially when they might be seeking guidance or wisdom from you?
Being ashamed or afraid to proclaim Christ represents a denial of our baptismal call to evangelize, shows lack of trust in God's protection, and fails to fulfill Jesus's command to "go and make disciples of all nations."
Did I compromise my beliefs to gain others' approval rather than standing firm in what I know to be right, particularly in matters related to family dynamics, community involvement, or personal values?
Prioritizing human approval over standing firm in God's truth demonstrates both moral cowardice and places human opinion above divine authority.
Did I sacrifice my core values to win the approval of others, especially those closest to me, such as family members or close friends, rather than standing firm in what I know is right?
Prioritizing human approval over standing firm in God's truth demonstrates both moral cowardice and places human opinion above divine authority.
Did you remain silent about Church teachings to avoid discomfort or conflict within your community?
While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.
Did I remain silent about Church teachings to avoid discomfort among family members and close friends?
While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.
Retaliation
Do I harbor thoughts of revenge towards others?
Entertaining thoughts of revenge is sinful because it rejects Christ's teaching of forgiveness and love of enemies, choosing instead to harbor malice and a desire for personal retaliation rather than leaving justice to God.
Lust
Have you engaged in viewing, accessing, or interacting with pornography?
Interacting with pornography reduces human beings to mere objects for personal gratification, violating their inherent dignity and worth as children of God.
Did I reduce others to their usefulness or what they could do for me, rather than seeing them as whole individuals created in God's image?
While not sexual in nature, this sin is still a form of lust in that it objectifies others who are created in God's image and possesses inherent dignity,
Did you reduce others to their usefulness or what they could do for me, rather than seeing them as beloved children of God?
While not sexual in nature, this sin is still a form of lust in that it objectifies others who are created in God's image and possesses inherent dignity,
Have I had actual or simulated sexual acts outside of marriage, either in thought, word, or deed?
While our sexual nature is a gift, using it to indulge in sensual pleasures is sinful as it's ordered for a particular purpose within marriage.
Have I engaged in actual or simulated acts outside of marriage that are motivated by lust?
While our sexual nature is a gift, using it to indulge in sensual pleasures is sinful as it's ordered for a particular purpose within marriage.
Prodigality
Have I allowed distractions in my daily routine to consume more time than is reasonable for meaningful spiritual pursuits?
Wasteful pursuits squander the precious time God has given us for meaningful spiritual growth and service to others.
Have I excessively risked financial resources entrusted to me, neglecting my responsibility to provide for family needs?
This sin violates the virtue of stewardship by recklessly risking resources God has entrusted to us, while potentially harming our ability to provide for family and those in need.
Have I excessively risked God's financial resources entrusted to me for family needs and other responsibilities?
This sin violates the virtue of stewardship by recklessly risking resources God has entrusted to us, while potentially harming our ability to provide for family and those in need.
Have I excessively jeopardized my retirement funds, compromising my ability to provide for my family's needs?
This sin violates the virtue of stewardship by recklessly risking resources God has entrusted to us, while potentially harming our ability to provide for family and those in need.
Imprudence
Have I wasted my time on idle pursuits, squandering the hours that could have been used for meaningful spiritual growth and service to others?
Wasteful pursuits squander the precious time God has given us for meaningful spiritual growth and service to others.
Sensuality
Did I desire worldly experiences over growth in faith, prioritizing temporal pleasures above my eternal relationship with God?
Prioritizing worldly pleasures and experiences over spiritual development is considered sinful as it violates the First Commandment by placing temporal desires above one's eternal relationship with God.
Did I desire worldly activities over growth in spiritual life?
Prioritizing worldly pleasures and experiences over spiritual development is considered sinful as it violates the First Commandment by placing temporal desires above one's eternal relationship with God.
Did I let worldly distractions interfere with my growth in faith?
Prioritizing worldly pleasures and experiences over spiritual development is considered sinful as it violates the First Commandment by placing temporal desires above one's eternal relationship with God.
Did you use controlled substances to detach from reality?
Using controlled substances deliberately impairs your God-given reason and free will, and an attempt to avoid dealing with life's challenges rather than facing them with God's help.
Did you deliberately use controlled substances to alter your self-perception?
Using controlled substances deliberately impairs your God-given reason and free will, and an attempt to avoid dealing with life's challenges rather than facing them with God's help.
Did you use controlled substances to escape your responsibilities?
Using controlled substances deliberately impairs your God-given reason and free will, and an attempt to avoid dealing with life's challenges rather than facing them with God's help.
Do I allow my desire for pleasure and relaxation to become an idol, displacing God as the center of my life?
This sin makes idol of physical or emotional gratification, turning what should be a gift from God into the primary focus of one's life, displacing God as the center and highest good.
Do I allow my own desires for relaxation and leisure, such as enjoying hobbies or spending time with loved ones, to become more important than nurturing a deeper relationship with God?
This sin makes idol of physical or emotional gratification, turning what should be a gift from God into the primary focus of one's life, displacing God as the center and highest good.
Do I make the pursuit of my physical and emotional desires a higher priority than my relationship with God?
This sin makes idol of physical or emotional gratification, turning what should be a gift from God into the primary focus of one's life, displacing God as the center and highest good.
Impiety
Did I condone a funeral where human remains were not properly buried, leading others to be scandalized by my lack of reverence for the dead?
Failing to advocate for proper burial of human remains is considered sinful as the Church teaches that the body is sacred and deserves reverent burial, with scattering or keeping remains being contrary to the dignity of the human body and resurrection belief.
Did I fail to always show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament, often neglecting to bow my head or cross myself when passing by the altar in church?
This sin is in failing to show proper reverence demonstrates a lack of faith, respect, and proper worship due to God.
Did I fail to show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament in my daily life, especially during family gatherings or when participating in parish events?
This sin is in failing to show proper reverence demonstrates a lack of faith, respect, and proper worship due to God.
Did you fail to show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament, especially during times of private prayer or when passing by a church, on multiple occasions?
This sin is in failing to show proper reverence demonstrates a lack of faith, respect, and proper worship due to God.
Scandal
Did you try to lead someone else into committing a sinful act?
Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.
Did you try to encourage someone else to engage in sinful behavior?
Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.
Impenitence
Have I refused to acknowledge my wrongdoing, stubbornly holding onto guilt and shame?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Have I stubbornly refused to acknowledge my own wrongdoing, clinging to my pride instead of humbly admitting fault?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Have I refused to admit wrongdoing, clinging to my own pride over seeking God's mercy?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Blasphemy
Did I receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of sin, thus risking offending God through my thoughtless actions?
This mortal sin is a form of sacrilege and profanes the real presence of Christ and shows grave disrespect for the sacrament by receiving unworthily.
Did I receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of spiritual unrest?
This mortal sin is a form of sacrilege and profanes the real presence of Christ and shows grave disrespect for the sacrament by receiving unworthily.
Did you use the name of God, specifically the Holy Name of Jesus, as a curse or byword in your speech?
This is sinful as using God's holy name carelessly or disrespectfully shows contempt for His divine nature and fails to give proper honor to the sacred name of God, which should only be used in prayer, worship, or respectful discussion.
Did you speak the name of God as an oath or curse, using His holy name in a careless or disrespectful manner?
This is sinful as using God's holy name carelessly or disrespectfully shows contempt for His divine nature and fails to give proper honor to the sacred name of God, which should only be used in prayer, worship, or respectful discussion.
Ambition
Have I allowed my desire for power and control to influence my decisions in ways that disregard the well-being and needs of those around me?
inordinate ambition and the obsession with power corrupts the soul by placing our desire to dominate and control above God's authority, turning us away from humble service and toward prideful self-exaltation.
Did I allow my desire for power and dominance to influence how I treat others, particularly those in positions of authority or responsibility?
inordinate ambition and the obsession with power corrupts the soul by placing our desire to dominate and control above God's authority, turning us away from humble service and toward prideful self-exaltation.
Did I let my desire for power and dominance influence how I engage in community events, such as church gatherings or neighborhood potluck dinners?
inordinate ambition and the obsession with power corrupts the soul by placing our desire to dominate and control above God's authority, turning us away from humble service and toward prideful self-exaltation.
Greed
Did I make wealth and material possessions a driving force in my life, replacing trust in God's providence?
This sin makes money an idol that replaces trust in God's providence, turning what should be a tool for good into an object of worship.
Envy
Have I secretly wished that others would lose their blessings, possessions, or good fortune?
Envy leads us to have discontent for another's possessions so we won't feel the pain of comparison or perceived lack in our own lives.
Have I grown discontent with what I have, fixating on envying others' possessions?
This sin stems from ingratitude for one's own blessings and letting material desires control our hearts.
Have I allowed envy to inspire discontent in me by fixating on others' possessions?
This sin stems from ingratitude for one's own blessings and letting material desires control our hearts.
Incontinence
Did you lack self-control in speaking to others, using words that were vulgar or inappropriate?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Did you lack self-control and speak to others with vulgarity, using words that disrespect their dignity?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Did you lack self-control when speaking to others in social settings, using language that was unworthy of your dignity?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Gluttony
Did I overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, particularly when engaging in social gatherings or celebrations?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Did I overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, demonstrating an excessive attachment to sensual pleasures that disregards the virtue of temperance?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Did you overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable through excessive habits developed during enjoyable social events, vacations, or everyday routines?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Gossip
Have I taken pleasure in speaking about others' private affairs, even if what I shared was true?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Have I taken pleasure in discussing others' faults or private affairs, even if what I shared was true, within social gatherings or through regular phone calls with friends and family?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Have I shared or spoken about others' private affairs for my own amusement, even if what I shared was true?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Anger
Have I nursed anger rather than seeking reconciliation in my relationships with family members, friends, or others?
Uncontrolled anger corrupts our own heart, damages our relationship with both God and neighbor.
Have I nursed anger against family members, friends, or acquaintances rather than seeking reconciliation through forgiveness?
Uncontrolled anger corrupts our own heart, damages our relationship with both God and neighbor.
Impurity
Did you intentionally use certain substances or objects to prevent pregnancy?
This sin intentionally separates the unitive and procreative purposes of marriage and violates the proper use of one's sexuality.
Have I dressed in a way that respects my dignity?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Have I dressed in a way that respects my dignity?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Have I dressed in a way that is modest and respectful, yet still allows me to maintain my dignity?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Fornication
Did I have any non-procreative sex within my marriage?
While the sexual natures are a gift, it's a sin to stray away from their ordering toward the unitive and procreative nature within marriage.
Violence
Have I knowingly acted in ways that brought pain or suffering to someone else through my deeds, such as causing harm to a family member's feelings or well-being?
When we deliberately harm others, we attack their God-given dignity.
Have I knowingly acted in ways that brought harm to someone else through my deeds?
When we deliberately harm others, we attack their God-given dignity.
Infidelity
Have I entertained inappropriate feelings toward someone else's spouse, particularly in a context where such thoughts could lead to compromising their commitment to one another?
This sin undermines the sacred bond of marriage by treating another person as an object of desire rather than respecting their dignity and commitment to their spouse.
Adultery
Have I harbored inappropriate desires toward someone else's spouse?
This sin undermines the sacred bond of marriage by treating another person as an object of desire rather than respecting their dignity and commitment to their spouse.
Murder
Have I, through my words or writings, ever endorsed or justified abortion or euthanasia?
It's sinful to condone sinful behavior and fail to admonish such sinful actions, especially a grave act that would take a life.
Have I participated in an abortion or euthanasia?
It's a grave sin to actively participate in the intentional taking of another's life, which robs the gift of life that was granted to others by God.
Sorcery
Have I interacted with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards through words or conversations?
This sin is a violation of the First Commandment because it attempts to bypass God's providence and divine will by seeking supernatural knowledge through forbidden means, effectively placing trust in occult practices rather than in God.
Have I ever used words to seek guidance from mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards?
This sin is a violation of the First Commandment because it attempts to bypass God's providence and divine will by seeking supernatural knowledge through forbidden means, effectively placing trust in occult practices rather than in God.
Presumption
Have you deliberately persisted in sinful behavior, counting on God's mercy without making any effort to change, perhaps while engaging in favorite hobbies or spending time with loved ones?
Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.
Did you deliberately persist in sinful behavior, counting on God's mercy without making any effort to change your thought patterns or behaviors that hinder your spiritual growth?
Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.
Did you deliberately persist in sinful behavior, counting on God's mercy without making any effort to change your ways despite having a comfortable life and stable family relationships?
Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.
Did you put off going to confession while in a state of sin, demonstrating prideful presumption that you'd have time later to repent?
Deliberately delaying confession while in mortal sin is a serious offense because it recklessly endangers your soul's salvation, shows contempt for God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation, and demonstrates prideful presumption that you'll have time later to repent.
Did you intentionally put off going to confession when in a state of sin, thereby showing disrespect for God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation?
Deliberately delaying confession while in mortal sin is a serious offense because it recklessly endangers your soul's salvation, shows contempt for God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation, and demonstrates prideful presumption that you'll have time later to repent.
Apostasy
Have you explicitly rejected God's existence, either internally to yourself or externally through conversations or actions with others?
Denying God's existence after having been baptized apostasy is one of the gravest sins possible because it is declaring the Author of Life and Source of all being to be non-existent, which directly contradicts both reason and divine revelation.
Have you, through thoughts or conversation with others in your social network or community events, explicitly rejected the existence of God?
Denying God's existence after having been baptized apostasy is one of the gravest sins possible because it is declaring the Author of Life and Source of all being to be non-existent, which directly contradicts both reason and divine revelation.